PREFACE TO THE AMERICAN EDITION.
THESE biographic sketches of "Eminent English Liberals" appeared in the old country shortly before the fall of the Beaconsfield administration.
That event fulfilled the hopes and anticipations of the writer so completely, that, in preparing this edition for the American press, he has deemed it inexpedient to alter the original text in almost any particular. The only important change effected is one of name: "Liberal" has been substituted for "Radical" on the title-page to avoid possible misinterpretation. Truly regarded, Americans and Englishmen form but one mighty people, moved by common instincts and identical interests. Especially ought the great contemporary thinkers and doers of both countries to be made common property; and, should this volume contribute in some little measure towards so desirable an end, its primary object will have been attained.
Union Club, Boston,
September, 1880.
